Optical Computing Stray Signal Blocking
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Solution Overview
Problem
Spectroscopic techniques in field or process environments face challenges due to sample preparation delays, interference from background materials, and the complexity of transitioning laboratory instruments to field conditions, which affect precision and accuracy in quantitative measurements.
Innovation Solution
An optical computing device with an electromagnetic radiation source, integrated computational elements, and a focal lens system that blocks stray signals, allowing for precise detection of sample characteristics through a spatial aperture, enabling real-time analysis without extensive sample processing.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If conventional spectroscopic techniques are used in field environments, then portability is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to stray signals and inconsistent environmental conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and removes stray signals from the optical detection path using spatial filtering techniques. The imaging system separates desired sample signals from interfering stray radiation generated by optical components, effectively taking out the harmful stray signals from the measurement system to improve precision while maintaining field portability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an imaging system as an intermediary component between the sample and detector. This imaging system acts as a mediator that selectively transmits desired optical signals while blocking stray signals, thereby improving measurement precision without compromising the portability of the field spectroscopic device.
2Measurement precision
If sample preparation steps are conducted to improve measurement accuracy, then measurement precision is improved, but analysis time increases due to preparation delays
Solution Approach 1:
The patent performs preliminary spectral calibration and stray signal characterization during device setup or initial operation. By pre-establishing the stray signal profiles and calibration parameters, the system eliminates the need for time-consuming sample preparation steps during actual analysis, thereby maintaining high accuracy while reducing analysis time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical sample preparation procedures with optical computing and imaging-based signal processing. Instead of physically preparing samples to remove interference, the system uses optical imaging to selectively filter stray signals, substituting mechanical preparation with optical processing to save time while maintaining precision.
3Adaptability or versatility
If laboratory spectroscopic instruments are transitioned to field environments, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases to overcome environmental inconsistencies
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a multi-functional imaging system that simultaneously performs multiple functions: focusing desired sample signals, blocking stray signals from various optical components, and providing spectral calibration. This universal imaging component replaces multiple separate systems, improving adaptability to field environments while actually reducing overall device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The imaging system performs self-calibration and automatic stray signal rejection without requiring complex external environmental control systems. The device adapts to field conditions autonomously, eliminating the need for additional complexity in temperature control, humidity regulation, or vibration isolation that would otherwise be required for laboratory instrument portability.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The system enhances sensitivity and detection limits, providing accurate and rapid analysis of sample characteristics in field conditions by isolating desired signals from interfering stray radiation, thus improving the precision and speed of spectroscopic measurements.
Implementation Method 1
a first focal lens arranged to receive the optically interacted radiation and the one or more stray signals and generate a primary focal point from the optically interacted radiation
Implementation Method 2
a structural element defining a spatial aperture aligned with the primary focal point such that the optically interacted radiation is able to pass therethrough while transmission of the one or more stray signals is substantially blocked by the structural element
Implementation Method 3
an electromagnetic radiation source configured to emit electromagnetic radiation into an optical train, where the electromagnetic radiation optically interacts with a sample
Data Source
AI summary
Optical computing devices are disclosed. One optical computing device includes an electromagnetic radiation source that emits electromagnetic radiation into an optical train to optically interact with a sample and at least one integrated computational element, the sample being configured to generate optically interacted radiation. A sampling window is arranged adjacent the sample and configured to allow transmission of the electromagnetic radiation therethrough and has one or more surfaces that generate one or more stray signals. A first focal lens is arranged to receive the optically interacted radiation and the one or more stray signals and generate a primary focal point from the optically interacted radiation. A structural element defines a spatial aperture aligned with the primary focal point such that the optically interacted radiation is able to pass therethrough while transmission of the one or more stray signals is substantially blocked by the structural element.